Fleewinter

The Elephant Valley Project is more of a unique experience than just another accommodation option. The project encourages local mahouts to bring their overworked or injured elephants to this sanctuary, where, ‘they can learn how to act like elephants again’.

This is not a place where you can ride elephants (that is strictly forbidden) but it offers an amazing experience to see elephants up close, in their natural habitat and to help care for them. Run by a British guy who is passionate about helping Mondulkiri’s working elephants - the sceme pays Mahouts to bring their elephants to retire here.

There are two options for visiting the Elephant Valley Project. Option one is a day trip in which half the day is spent observing the the elephants, and half the day is spent washing the elephants and other tasks around the project site. The other option (which we thoroughly recommend) is an overnight stay in one of their bungalows tucked into the jungle on a ridge overlooking the valley. The maximum amount of day trippers allowed per day is 12, guaranteeing a fairly intimate experience.

The accommodation at the Elephant Valley project offers basic bungalows built in the traditional Bunong style but with comfortable furnishings. The accommodation is located on the slopes of the elephant valley affording stunning views over the surrounding forest where many varieties of birds can be seen from eagles to hornbills.

The project does not take overnight visitors on Friday and Saturday nights and is not open to visitors on Saturday and Sunday; however, there are plans in place to open six days a week.

The Elephant Livelihood Initiative Environment (E.L.I.E) is a non government organisation (NGO). By staying at the Elephant Valley Project you are directly supporting the organisation that provides an alternative approach to elephant care, rehabilitation and conservation.